Description: A delightfully simple and satisfying “Not So Impossible” Cheeseburger Pie, delivering all the classic flavors of a juicy cheeseburger in a comforting and easy-to-bake casserole. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s sure to please the whole family, this recipe combines seasoned ground beef, melty cheddar cheese, and a Bisquick-based batter for a meal that’s both hearty and incredibly convenient.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (yellow or white onion works well)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar provides a bolder flavor, but mild or medium cheddar is also suitable)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole milk adds richness, but 2% or even skim milk can be used)
- 1/2 cup Bisquick or other baking mix (store-bought or homemade)
- Optional: sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise for garnish and serving
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pie Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the pie bakes evenly and the batter cooks through properly. While the oven is heating, lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish. You can use cooking spray, butter, or oil to grease the dish. This prevents the pie from sticking and makes it easier to remove once baked. Set the prepared pie dish aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Sauté the Onions
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break the beef apart with a spatula and cook until it is no longer pink. As the beef cooks, add the finely chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté the onion along with the beef until the onion becomes translucent and softened. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Sautéing the onions beforehand mellows their flavor and prevents them from being too overpowering in the finished pie.
Step 3: Season the Beef Mixture
Once the beef is browned and the onions are softened, season the mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. The garlic powder and onion powder enhance the savory flavor of the beef, while salt and pepper season it to taste. Stir well to ensure that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the beef mixture. Continue cooking for another minute or two to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Drain Excess Fat
Carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet. This step is crucial to prevent the pie from becoming greasy. You can use a colander or carefully tilt the skillet to pour off the excess fat. Removing the excess fat also helps the crust to bake properly and prevents it from becoming soggy.
Step 5: Layer the Beef Mixture and Cheese
Transfer the seasoned beef mixture into the prepared pie dish. Spread the mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish to ensure that each slice of the pie has a good balance of beef. Next, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef mixture. The cheddar cheese will melt and create a gooey, cheesy layer that complements the savory beef.
Step 6: Prepare the Bisquick Batter
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and Bisquick or other baking mix until the batter is smooth. Ensure there are no lumps in the batter. The Bisquick batter acts as the crust for the pie, holding all the ingredients together and providing a slightly sweet and cakey texture. Whisking the ingredients thoroughly ensures that the batter is light and airy.
Step 7: Combine and Bake
Pour the Bisquick batter evenly over the beef and cheese in the pie dish. Gently spread the batter to ensure it covers the entire surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so it’s important to check for doneness by inserting a knife or toothpick into the center of the pie.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Once the pie is baked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This allows the pie to set and makes it easier to cut and serve. Garnish with sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise if desired. These toppings add extra flavor and visual appeal to the pie.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This “Not So Impossible” Cheeseburger Pie is a winner for several reasons:
- Ease of Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It requires minimal effort and time, making it a hassle-free dinner option.
- Family-Friendly Flavor: The flavors of a classic cheeseburger are universally loved, making this pie a hit with both kids and adults. The combination of seasoned ground beef, melty cheddar cheese, and a slightly sweet Bisquick crust is irresistible.
- Versatile and Customizable: You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Add different types of cheese, vegetables, or seasonings to create your own unique version.
- Comfort Food Classic: This pie offers the comforting satisfaction of a home-cooked meal. It’s warm, hearty, and incredibly satisfying.
- One-Dish Wonder: It’s a complete meal in one dish, minimizing cleanup and maximizing convenience.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a side of your favorite burger toppings such as sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise.
- Pair with a side salad or coleslaw for a balanced meal.
- Serve with a side of French fries or onion rings for a complete cheeseburger experience.
- Offer a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for added creaminess.
- Cut into wedges and serve as an appetizer or party snack.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use a blend of ground beef and ground sausage.
- Add a layer of sliced tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms to the beef mixture for added flavor and texture.
- Use a combination of different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or pepper jack, for a more complex flavor profile.
- If you don’t have Bisquick, you can make your own by combining 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 2 tablespoons shortening.
- To prevent the crust from browning too quickly, cover the pie with foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving (Note: This is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)
- Protein: Approximately 25g per serving (Note: This is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)
- Sodium: Approximately 500mg per serving (Note: This is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)
Conclusion:
The “Not So Impossible” Cheeseburger Pie is a delightful and easy-to-make recipe that brings the classic flavors of a cheeseburger to your dinner table in a convenient casserole form. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a fun and satisfying dish to share with friends and family, this pie is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity, versatility, and comforting flavors make it a go-to recipe that you’ll want to make again and again. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of cheeseburger heaven!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this recipe. It’s a leaner option that still delivers a delicious savory flavor. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and drain any excess fat before adding it to the pie dish.
- Can I make this pie ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and the Bisquick batter ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble the pie and bake as directed. You can also bake the pie ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
- What if I don’t have Bisquick?
- If you don’t have Bisquick, you can easily make your own by combining 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 2 tablespoons shortening. Whisk these ingredients together until the shortening is evenly distributed, and you’ll have a homemade Bisquick substitute.
- Can I add vegetables to this pie?
- Yes, you can definitely add vegetables to this pie! Sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or chopped spinach would all be delicious additions. Simply sauté the vegetables until they are tender and add them to the beef mixture before layering the cheese on top.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Leftover cheeseburger pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual slices or bake the entire pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Make sure to cover the pie with foil to prevent it from drying out during reheating.
